What brought the jellyfish in? (Melbourne, Melbourne Beach: beach, date, water)

[brucemc777]

Only have been in these parts since the start of September, and we go over to the beaches around Melbourne Beach once or twice a week. Today there were quite a number of jellyfish washed on shore; i think previously to date i saw one (1), but today in a rather short stretch there were easily 40. I thought it might have been the recent storms, but we have had these before and i didn't see them. Anyone know the reason?

[gatorlyn]

Is it the Cannonball Jellyfish like this:



I noticed that they usually drift nearshore during the spring/fall months, when the the water goes from cooler to warmer, and vice versa. Also when we have pretty consistent onshore winds. Happens almost every year and not unusual

[Rabflmom]

Originally Posted by brucemc777

Only have been in these parts since the start of September, and we go over to the beaches around Melbourne Beach once or twice a week. Today there were quite a number of jellyfish washed on shore; i think previously to date i saw one (1), but today in a rather short stretch there were easily 40. I thought it might have been the recent storms, but we have had these before and i didn't see them. Anyone know the reason?

Depending on the wind and current -you get jellyfish. Jellyfish don't really swim they just float on the water and go where it takes them. so sometimes when the wind and current are right they end up on the beach. They don't really have any propulsion to keep themselves from beaching.